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Ruddersafe: steering stabiliser for your outboard motor
The Ruddersafe auxiliary rudder clamps onto the cavitation plate of your outboard motor (on the Volvo Penta 280/290 with a special bracket over the exhaust) and gives your boat steering grip at low speed and when going astern.
Choose your typeWhich type suits your motor?
Only the length of your boat decides: Type 2 up to 6.5 metres, Type 3 up to 8.5 metres and Type 4 from 8.5 metres. Volvo Penta 280/290 Z-drives and duoprops have their own versions, split the same way.
★ Tested by ANWB Waterkampioen 1985
“…safe for the engine and genuinely improves steering.”
Positively tested back in 1985 by the leading Dutch boating magazine — the proven solution for better steering at low speed for over 40 years.
Read the full test reportWhat Ruddersafe does for your boat
An outboard motor steers with the thrust of its propeller. As speed drops, so does steering force. That is where Ruddersafe helps.
More control at low speed
The boat answers the helm more directly, especially when moving slowly through locks, harbours and narrow waterways.
Steadier on course
Less wandering and fewer corrections: the boat holds a straight line more easily, which makes for a calmer, safer trip.
Easier mooring
In a tight berth or alongside a jetty you can manoeuvre more precisely, including when going astern.
Controlled through bends
The auxiliary rudder helps the boat turn through bends in a calm, predictable way.
More economical boating
Because you need to correct less, Ruddersafe can help reduce fuel consumption.
For many boats and motors
There are versions for outboard motors and for Volvo Penta 280/290 Z-drives and duoprops, for small and larger boats alike.
Ruddersafe in action
Watch the video to see how the auxiliary rudder works. You fit Ruddersafe yourself in about 20 minutes with ordinary hand tools, without drilling.
Frequently asked questions about Ruddersafe
Which Ruddersafe type do I need?
That depends only on the length of your boat. Type 2 is for boats up to 6.5 metres, Type 3 for boats up to 8.5 metres and Type 4 for boats of 8.5 metres and longer. Engine power plays no part.
Does Ruddersafe fit a Volvo Penta 280/290 Z-drive or duoprop?
Yes. There are separate Volvo Penta versions with their own bracket mounting, also available as Type 2, 3 and 4 according to boat length.
Can I fit Ruddersafe myself?
Yes. The brackets clamp onto the cavitation plate of the engine. With ordinary hand tools the job takes about 20 minutes and no drilling is needed.
Does Ruddersafe also work when going astern?
Yes. The auxiliary rudder also provides steering force in reverse, which is particularly useful when mooring.
What happens at higher speed?
When you go fast, the blades of the auxiliary rudder fold up. Once speed drops again, they return to the water and do their job.
Do I need two Ruddersafes for twin outboards?
Usually not. With two motors side by side, one Ruddersafe on the port motor is enough in most cases.